Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and eco-tourists. Known for its lush cloud forests, rich biodiversity, and thrilling outdoor activities, it offers unforgettable experiences. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Monteverde:
1. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is arguably the best place to visit in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Thousands of ecologists, biologists, and general travelers coming to discover Monteverde Cloud Forest’s impressive biodiversity participate in the daily Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour. However, contrary to what some travelers expect, this place is more about the learning experience and less about seeing animals. Thus, you should expect to learn a lot about why the Monteverde Cloud Forest is essential for the environment.
2. Curi-Cancha Reserve
The cloud forest of Curi-Cancha Reserve creates a habitat for flora and fauna such as colorful quetzals and monkeys. Visitors can explore the private reserve via several nature trails. Plus, the private reserve’s daily 50-person cap means you’ll see more wildlife without having to battle the crowds.
3. Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
Tucked away in the mountains, the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The 3-acre (1.2-hectare) sanctuary houses four unique climate-controlled habitats where more than 30 species of butterflies thrive alongside 20 species of arachnids and insects and a colony of leaf-cutter ants.
4. Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
A quieter alternative to Monteverde’s main reserve with equally stunning biodiversity. Opportunities to see spider monkeys and rare bird species. Great for photographers and avid hikers.
5. Selvatura Park
Selvatura is a park and reserve in Monteverde that is filled with fun activities including canopy, walking on hanging bridges, visiting a hummingbird garden, a butterfly garden, and a reptile house. It is something you cannot miss and was the most fun-filled thing in Monteverde.
6. Orchid Garden
If you are an orchid fan, then you must visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden. There is no need to book in advance, it’s open from 9-5 PM every day. When you are done, go to Orchid Coffee is super yummy for lunch or tea.
7. Monteverde Cheese Factory
In 1953, the Quaker settlers founded the Cheese Factory, which would soon become the area's largest employer. Today, tourists enjoy ice cream cones, cheese samples, and a healthy helping of pacifist, Quaker history on Cheese Factory tours. (Monteverde. 7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday, to 12:30 p.m.
8. Las Pumas Rescue Center
Las Pumas Rescue Center (Centro de Rescate Las Pumas) rescues and rehabilitates wildlife and advocates rainforest conservation efforts in the Guanacaste Province near Cañas, Costa Rica. The sanctuary sits on an old farm in the heart of the Santa Rosa Sector Guanacaste Conservation Area (Area de Conservación Guanacaste), both a network of protected areas and a World Heritage Site.
9. The Bat Jungle
Home to around 100 bats from 8 different native species, the enclosed Bat Jungle replicates the conditions of a cloud forest at night. While bats can be difficult to observe in the wild, this exhibit lets you see bats eating, interacting, and caring for their young. A tour gives visitors further insight into these mysterious nocturnal creatures.
10. Centro Comercial Monteverde
Centro Comercial Monteverde is a bustling shopping mall that serves as a hub for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable shopping experience. Situated amidst the stunning natural beauty of Monteverde, this mall features an array of shops that showcase the rich culture and craftsmanship of Costa Rica.
Visitors can browse through numerous boutiques that offer unique handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs, perfect for taking a piece of Monteverde home with them. Open every day from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Centro Comercial Monteverde is accessible for tourists looking to explore at their leisure.
